From Winnipeg to Berlin: Showcasing Arctic drone solutions and health tech on world stage

Every year, the Falling Walls science summit in Berlin, brings together global leaders and researchers to ask the same question: "Which are the next walls to fall in science and society?

The University of Manitoba (UM) will take center stage to answer some of society’s most critical challenges including using new technology to tackle as climate change, arctic security and improving outcomes people who have suffered strokes. Canada is the summit’s official partner country, while UM innovators will demonstrate how Prairie research and innovation are poised to solve real-world problems.

Phil Ferguson, UM Space Systems Engineer, Associate Professor in Mechanical Engineering and Magellan Industrial Research Chair of Aerospace at Price Faculty of Engineering is one of just 15 global finalists for Falling Walls Engage 2026. Ferguson will present ACCESS, a project supporting Indigenous Arctic communities facing challenges created by changing climate conditions, unsafe ice, extreme weather and limited connectivity.

ACCESS uses a drone airship to provide satellite connectivity to remote northern communities, with potential applications in emergency response, communications and environmental and safety monitoring.

His work positions Manitoba expertise at the forefront of Arctic research, Indigenous science, and climate resilience.

“Connectivity is the foundation for everything. We need to connect people to learn from one another. We need to connect people to stay secure in an increasingly uncertain geopolitical world. And we need to connect people to be resilient to climate change.” - Dr. Phil Ferguson

Following the research showcase, UM student innovator Dr. Saba Mohammadalinezhad Kolahdouz will represent Manitoba at the Falling Walls Lab global finale. Having earned first place at Falling Walls Lab Manitoba in June 2026 for her venture SynapPlay, Dr. Kolahdouz addresses the issue of brain-body disconnection after a stroke. Her platform couples interactive exercises with a wearable wrist device that sends sensory feedback to the brain, helping survivors regain independence and reducing caregiver strain beyond the clinic

“Behind every movement lost is a life waiting to be reclaimed. Our venture, SynapPlay, was born from a vision to bridge the gap between the brain and the body, because recovery is about more than restoring movement, it is about restoring independence, dignity, and hope for stroke survivors. I am deeply honored to represent Manitoba and Canada on the global stage.” - Saba Kolahdouz

Leadership at UM and Idea Start, a hub for innovation and entrepreneurship in all its forms across the university will also play co-host for the Canada Pavillion. President and Vice-Chancellor, Dr. Michael Benarroch, Vice-President (Research and International) Dr. Mario Pinto, and Associate Vice-President Dr. Hans-Joachim Wieden will be part of the delegation fostering international research collaborations, commercialization, and partnerships.

“Our finalists bring forward bold ideas, but it takes partners, sponsors, mentors and supporters to help those ideas grow. This event reflects the strength of Manitoba’s innovation ecosystem and the important role we can play in helping local research, talent and innovation reach the world stage.” - Hans-Joachim Wieden, Associate Vice-President

Showcasing once again how Manitoba and UM research “punches above its weight,” and can deliver impactful, world-class solutions to Berlin and beyond.

Showcasing once again how Manitoba and UM research “punches above its weight,” and can deliver impactful, world-class solutions to Berlin and beyond.

Falling Walls Lab Manitoba returns in 2027. Information sessions and application details will be available through the IDEA START website.